Guide To Using An Epi-Pen
Inside any Epi-Pen is a single shot of Epinephrine, which to any Lehman is known as adrenaline. It could easily be mistaken for a simple marker pen, but underneath its exterior is a cleverly designed syringe. The syringe was designed to be safe, and will only display a point when it is activated. The pens are designed to be used by absolutely anyone. However training is recommended to promote more awareness about their use.
The pen was invented by the late great Sheldon Kaplan. He sadly died in relative obscurity despite being a con-inventor of a product which has saved millions of lives. Close associates however would argue that this is exactly what Sheldon would have wanted as he was a devout scientist who sought solutions and not fame. He originally invented the Combo Pen which was a device that treated nerve agent poisoning during the Vietnam War. His clever thinking was responsible for adapting the contraption so that it could hold Epinephrine, which ultimately led to the invention of the Epi-Pen.
The pen is now used worldwide to help anaphylaxis sufferers. People with this condition can have a fatal allergic reaction to a particular trigger. The single shot of adrenaline that comes out of the pen can alleviate the symptoms associated with anaphylactic shock, which could prove the difference between life and death. They are designed to be used by the sufferer themselves however in the event of unconsciousness a trained first aider or bystander would need to take control.
The first thing to do if you have noticed someone suffering from anaphylactic shock is to locate the pen and take it out of its protective tube. The pen should be held with the black tip pointing towards the ground. The cap on the other end should be removed, which will activate the syringe. The pen is now ready for use and should be inserted into the outside of the casualty's thigh, and then held in place for 10 seconds. There is no need to worry about removing clothing as the needle will go straight through. After 10 seconds it should be removed and then safely housed back in its protective tube.
It really is that easy to use and no one should ever fear about taking prompt action, which has undoubtedly saved millions of lives worldwide. Any first aider or bystander should also note that you do not need to receive permission to use the pen as in many cases a casualty could be unresponsive. It should also be remembered that they are prescription only and therefore the only place you will find them is on the casualty or with their belongings.
The effects of the pen are fast acting, but only temporary. It is essential at the same time of using one to dial the emergency services and state the exact circumstances. Hopefully the single shot of adrenaline will alleviate the symptoms whilst you wait their arrival, but in many cases more adrenaline will be required in hospital. Casualties who receive the correct treatment go on to make a full recovery, and therefore panic should not arise in such situations.
About the Author
Leading mountain rescue volunteer Geoff Goond believes "life is for learning", and has an infectious passion for first aid. Have you ever used an Epi-Pen? If not then visit the first aid at work training blog @ http://www.train-aid.co.uk for video tutorials.
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